20 Minute Skillet Pasta 🍝⏱️

This quick and flavorful skillet pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious in a hurry! With fresh veggies, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice, this pasta will please your family or impress last-minute guests. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze! 🎉

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or any pasta of choice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the sauce

• 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large skillet, bring water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add More Veggies: Toss in the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and slightly charred.

4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve: Garnish your skillet pasta with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creation! 🍽️

🍅 Feel free to customize this dish by adding your choice of protein, such as shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas, for a heartier meal.

Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Cooking times may vary, so check package instructions.
• Dairy-free: Use unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for vegan cheese instead of Parmesan.
• Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add a sliced jalapeño for extra heat!
• Pasta Shape: Swap out spaghetti for penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you have on hand. Each shape offers its own unique texture!

Enjoy your delicious and easy 20-minute skillet pasta that brings a burst of flavor to your weeknight dinners! 🌟